Elite (en. Elite)

/eˈlit/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
noun
A group of people with privileges or exceptional gifts.
The cultural elite of the country gathered to discuss the future of the arts.
La élite cultural del país se reunió para discutir el futuro de las artes.
The highest class in a social, political, or economic context.
Members of the political elite often have access to resources that the average citizen does not have.
Los miembros de la élite política suelen tener acceso a recursos que el ciudadano promedio no tiene.
A small group that enjoys advantages or distinctions in a specific area.
Only a small percentage of students reach the academic elite at university.
Solo un pequeño porcentaje de estudiantes alcanzan la élite académica en la universidad.

Etymology

From French 'élite', from Latin 'eligere', which means to choose.

Common Phrases and Expressions

intellectual elite
Group of people considered the most intelligent and cultured in a society.
élite intelectual
ruling elite
Group of people who hold power in a government.
élite gobernante
business elite
Group of entrepreneurs who have a significant impact on the economy.
élite empresarial

Related Words

exclusive
That which is limited to a select group.
exclusivo
privilege
Advantage that someone has over others.
privilegio
distinction
Characteristics that set someone apart from others.
distinción

Slang Meanings

A very influential person in a social or professional circle.
That guy is part of the elite; he's always at the best events.
Ese tipo es de la élite, siempre está en los mejores eventos.
Member of a closed group of privileged people.
He only hangs out with his elite group, as if they were the only ones that matter.
Él solo sale con su grupo de élite, como si fueran los únicos que importan.